25 Best Waterfalls in Iceland – Complete Guide

Waterfalls are one of the defining features of the Icelandic landscape. Glaciers, snowmelt, rainfall, rivers and dramatic changes in elevation combine to create thousands of cascades across the country.

No single waterfall represents Iceland. Some are wide and powerful, while others fall from narrow cliffs, disappear into canyons or flow through dark basalt formations.

This guide brings together waterfalls from across Iceland, including Gullfoss, Skógafoss, Seljalandsfoss, Dettifoss, Dynjandi and Hengifoss.

The waterfalls in this guide have been selected to show the variety of Icelandic landscapes while also helping travellers discover attractions in different regions of the country.

South Iceland contains one of the greatest concentrations of easily accessible waterfalls in the country.

Seljalandsfoss and Skógafoss are classic stops on the South Coast, while nearby Gljúfrabúi and Kvernufoss provide very different waterfall experiences close to the main Route 1 corridor.

Farther inland you can find waterfalls such as Háifoss and Brúarfoss, while Svartifoss is reached on foot in Skaftafell.

Urriðafoss is another easy waterfall stop for travellers driving through South Iceland.

Because many of these waterfalls are located relatively close to Reykjavík and major driving routes, South Iceland is an excellent region for visitors who want to see several waterfalls during a short trip.

North Iceland is home to some of the country's most powerful and dramatic waterfalls.

Dettifoss is famous for the enormous volume of water passing through the Jökulsá á Fjöllum river system. Nearby Selfoss and Hafragilsfoss make the same river one of Iceland's most impressive waterfall areas.

Goðafoss is another major North Iceland landmark and is conveniently located close to the main Ring Road.

Aldeyjarfoss lies farther into the interior and is especially striking because of the contrast between the waterfall and the surrounding basalt formations.

West Iceland combines easily accessible waterfalls with some of the country's most memorable hiking destinations.

Hraunfossar is unusual because water appears to emerge directly from beneath the lava field before flowing into the Hvítá river.

Glymur provides a completely different experience and is best approached as a hike rather than a roadside sightseeing stop.

On the Snæfellsnes Peninsula, Kirkjufellsfoss has become one of Iceland's most photographed waterfall landscapes because of its position near Kirkjufell mountain.

Farther north in the Westfjords, Dynjandi descends dramatically down the mountainside and is one of the defining natural attractions of the region.

East Iceland receives fewer visitors than the busiest parts of the South Coast, but the region contains many remarkable waterfalls.

Hengifoss is one of the best-known attractions in East Iceland and requires a hike from the parking area. Litlanesfoss is also located along the route and is surrounded by distinctive basalt columns.

Gufufoss is an accessible stop near Seyðisfjörður, while Klifbrekkufossar forms a striking series of cascades on the road towards Mjóifjörður.

For travellers exploring the Eastfjords slowly, waterfalls are among the best reasons to leave the Ring Road and explore the surrounding valleys and fjords.

You do not need to travel far from Reykjavík to see impressive waterfalls.

Gullfoss is the most famous waterfall on the Golden Circle and can easily be combined with Þingvellir and the Geysir geothermal area.

Öxarárfoss lies within Þingvellir National Park, while Helgufoss provides another option close to the capital region.

These locations work particularly well for travellers with limited time in Iceland or for visitors looking for short day trips from Reykjavík.

The Icelandic Highlands contain some spectacular waterfalls, but travelling there requires more planning than visiting waterfalls beside the Ring Road.

Ófærufoss is located in the Eldgjá area and is surrounded by the vast volcanic landscape of the Highlands.

Highland roads are seasonal and conditions can change rapidly. Access may require an appropriate vehicle, and roads can remain closed well into summer depending on snow and weather.

Always check official road and weather information before travelling into the Highlands.

Icelandic waterfalls can be visited throughout the year, but the experience changes considerably between seasons.

Summer

Summer provides long daylight hours and generally gives travellers the greatest flexibility. It is also the main season for accessing more remote locations and waterfalls in the Icelandic Highlands.

Autumn

Autumn brings changing colours and shorter days. Weather becomes less predictable, so flexible travel plans become increasingly important.

Winter

Snow and ice can transform waterfalls completely. Paths, stairs and viewing areas may become slippery or inaccessible. Popular waterfalls such as Skógafoss, Seljalandsfoss and Gullfoss can look dramatically different in winter conditions.

Spring

Snowmelt can increase water flow in many rivers, although conditions on hiking trails and secondary roads can remain difficult.

Waterfalls are powerful natural environments and conditions around them can change quickly.

Stay on marked paths and behind safety barriers where they are provided. Rocks close to waterfalls are frequently wet and extremely slippery.

Do not climb over barriers for photographs and avoid standing close to cliff edges.

During winter, spray from waterfalls can freeze on paths, stairs and viewing platforms.

This is especially important at waterfalls with steep paths or exposed viewpoints such as Glymur, Hengifoss and Háifoss.

At remote waterfalls, mobile coverage may be limited. Check the weather and road conditions before travelling and make sure your route is appropriate for the season and your vehicle.

What are the most famous waterfalls in Iceland?

Gullfoss, Skógafoss, Seljalandsfoss, Dettifoss and Goðafoss are among the best-known waterfalls visited by travellers in Iceland.

Which waterfalls can I visit on the South Coast?

Seljalandsfoss, Gljúfrabúi, Skógafoss and Kvernufoss are all located along or close to the popular South Coast route. Svartifoss is farther east in Skaftafell.

Which Iceland waterfall is near the Golden Circle?

Gullfoss is one of the three classic Golden Circle attractions. Öxarárfoss at Þingvellir can also be incorporated into a Golden Circle journey.

Can you visit Icelandic waterfalls in winter?

Many major waterfalls remain accessible during winter, but weather, snow, ice and road conditions can affect access. Always check current conditions before travelling.

Do you need to hike to see waterfalls in Iceland?

No. Many famous waterfalls are located close to parking areas, including Gullfoss, Skógafoss and Goðafoss. Others, such as Glymur and Hengifoss, require a longer walk or hike.